Hesron Kapanga

Director of Sport in the Ministry of Education, Innovation, Youth, Sports, Arts and Culture, Jo-Ann Manuel, has urged sports officers to increase the promotion of sporting activities in order to raise awareness and reduce unemployment.

Manuel said this on Tuesday during the launch of the 11th edition of the QKR Navachab Half Marathon.

The championship began in 2014 and will celebrate its 11th anniversary on 20 September, when the event will take place in Karibib.

QKR Namibia Navachab Gold Mine, as the main sponsor, gave N$ 350 000 to the event.

Manuel stated that the Ministry of Sports advocates for the professionalisation of sports in the country; therefore, attracting athletes who can benefit from the event’s proceeds is important.

“When we are talking about the professionalisation of sports, it’s nothing but us participating in sports to make a living, and that is what we are advocating for people to make a living out of sport,” she said.

Manuel also mentioned that Namibia has a high youth unemployment rate; therefore, sports should be used as a tool to help reduce unemployment.

“Let us remember that Los Angeles 2028 is the target. If we can give athletes the opportunity now, we can make them aware of how sports can change their lives, and perhaps see more active participation,” Manuel added.

Since the prize money was increased during the 10th edition of the half marathon, runners competing in the 11th edition of the Navachab Half Marathon will be awarded in both the 10-kilometre race and the main event, the half marathon.

Participants are urged to register early for this year’s race by contacting their regional sports officer, who will provide the necessary registration link.

-Nampa